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HEALTH TESTING

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The Importance of Embark DNA Health Testing and OFA Certification for Breeding Miniature Schnauzers

Breeding Miniature Schnauzers responsibly requires a commitment to the health and well-being of the breed. One of the most crucial steps a reputable breeder can take is conducting thorough health testing.
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These health tests help ensure that breeding pairs are free from genetic and hereditary conditions, leading to healthier puppies and maintaining the integrity of the breed

As a dedicated breeder of miniature schnauzers, I believe health testing is one of the most important steps in producing healthy, happy puppies. I complete full DNA testing to screen for inherited conditions and also perform the required testing through the OFA, including eyes, heart, and other essential health evaluations.

I am committed to the lifelong health and wellbeing of every puppy I raise, which is why I offer a Lifetime Genetic Health Guarantee. This guarantee covers conditions that are 100% genetic or congenital in origin and are either life-threatening or permanently and seriously debilitating, giving families confidence in their puppy’s long-term health.Many breeders do not go beyond basic health screenings, and very few have their dogs evaluated by a heart or eye specialist, let alone pursue official certification through the OFA. These additional tests require time, expertise, and expense, which most breeders choose to avoid. By completing these specialized evaluations, I go the extra mile to ensure my miniature schnauzers are not only healthy but meet the highest standards of care, providing families with added assurance and confidence in the lifelong wellbeing of their puppy.

 

Embark DNA Health Testing

Embark is a comprehensive DNA health testing service designed to detect genetic conditions that may affect Miniature Schnauzers. This health testing provides valuable insight into the genetic health of a dog, allowing breeders to make informed decisions when selecting breeding pairs. https://embarkvet.com

What Embark DNA Health Testing Screens For

How Embark Testing is Conducted

The health testing is simple and non-invasive. Breeders collect a DNA sample using a cheek swab from the dog and send it to the Embark laboratory. Results are typically available within 2-4 weeks and provide a detailed report on the dog’s genetic health and ancestry.

OFA Certification for Miniature Schnauzers

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) provides standardized health testing to evaluate conditions that can impact the Miniature Schnauzer’s quality of life. OFA certification is a critical step in ensuring that breeding dogs meet breed standards for health.

Required OFA Health Testing for Miniature Schnauzers

OFA Eye Certification (CAER Exam) – A board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist examines the dog’s eyes for hereditary conditions, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and other genetic eye disorders. OFA Cardiac Evaluation – A board-certified cardiologist must perform a cardiac examination to rule out congenital or hereditary heart conditions.

How OFA Testing is Conducted

  • OFA tests are performed by licensed specialists
  • Eye exams are conducted by board-certified ophthalmologists and require dilation of the dog's pupils.
  • Cardiac evaluations are performed by board-certified cardiologists and may include auscultation (listening to the heart) or echocardiography for a more detailed analysis.
Once the evaluations are completed, results are submitted to OFA for certification, and breeders receive documentation indicating whether the dog meets breed health standards.
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OFA.org and Its Role in Canine Health Registration

The OFA maintains a publicly accessible database at www.ofa.org, where breeders, veterinarians, and puppy buyers can verify a dog’s health testing results. The database includes information on:

  • Breed-specific health certifications
  • Test results for hereditary conditions
  • Pedigree-related health data
  • CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) Certification for dogs that meet all required and optional breed health tests
  • This transparency ensures accountability in breeding programs and allows potential puppy buyers to confirm that a breeder follows responsible health testing protocols.

Why These Tests Matter for Breeding

  • Ensuring Healthier Puppies
  • Improving the Breed Standard
  • Transparency and Trust